US journalist are enmeshed with the symbiotic relationships with the powerful. Instead of being independent and critical, journalist are typically dependent on policy makers and are unwilling to raise the curial and critical questions. Rather than monitor the game of power, most journalist are simply part of that game. Prof. Robert Jensen, journalism, University of Texas-Austin, USA

The relationship between American journalist, particularly television journalist and the centers of power has become incestuous. So close, because an argument can cut you off from access to the centers of power. So close, that it is impossible any longer to convey what you know about the centers of power. All you can do is say what you thing they mean and what they say. So what's the point of journalism. Robert Fisk, journalist, The Independent, UK.